Hydraulic Institute Training and Certification Alignment
The Hydraulic Institute training creates a progressive path that links Basic Pump and System Training (PSC 1), Intermediate Pump and System Training (PSC 2), and Pump System Optimization and Assessment Training (PSAP) into a coherent development and certification ladder. Pump System Certification Level 1 (PSC 1) builds foundational pump and system fluency, Pump System Certification Level 2 (PSC 2) strengthens applied diagnostic and optimization capabilities, and Pump System Optimization Professional (PSAP) certification prepares and validates professionals to execute full pump system assessments grounded in life‑cycle cost and energy performance.
The Hydraulic Institute structures pump system learning so that each stage reinforces and extends the last, with clear alignment to PSC 1, PSC 2, and PSAP certification outcomes. This approach formalizes knowledge transfer, streamlines workforce development, and provides a consistent benchmark for pump system competency across roles and organizations.
Basic Pump and System Training
Basic Pump and System Training (PSC 1) provides a foundational understanding of pump and system interaction, common calculations, and system operating behavior for individuals who are new to pumps or looking to solidify their core knowledge. The course addresses operating point determination, power consumption, efficiency, and the fundamentals of pump and system curves, friction losses, NPSH, and cavitation.
Learners also gain familiarity with:
- Common pump and system components, including rotodynamic and positive displacement pumps, drivers, and basic construction features.
- Factory performance testing concepts, basic installation and maintenance considerations, and typical application factors that influence performance and reliability.
By the end of PSC 1, participants can read and apply pump and system curves, perform basic industry calculations, and speak the common technical language needed for more advanced training and certification preparation.
Intermediate Pump and System Training
Intermediate Pump and System Training (PSC 2) builds directly on PSC 1 by providing an intermediate level of understanding in pump and system design, application, and operating behavior. Aimed at individuals seeking to expand their technical capability, PSC 2 uses the same 16 knowledge domains as PSC 1 but advances the depth of topics to emphasize analysis, diagnostics, and optimization.
Key coverage includes:
- Calculations of system curves, pump total head, and Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH), along with pump selection criteria and control methods for varying operating conditions.
- Commissioning practices, maintenance and troubleshooting, performance testing, failure modes, and the impact of operating conditions on reliability, vibration, and energy efficiency.
Graduates of PSC 2 are equipped to move from “knowing the fundamentals” to “diagnosing and solving complex pump and system issues,” providing the analytical tools needed to quantify performance gaps and evaluate improvement options.
Pump System Optimization and Assessment Training
Pump System Optimization and Assessment Training (PSAP) advances professionals from system analysis to full assessment and optimization expertise. Building on PSC 1/PSC 2 fundamentals, this advanced training examines the economics of pumping systems and the strategies to assess and optimize them using standardized, repeatable methods.
The course provides immersive coverage of:
- Pump system economics, life‑cycle cost–based optimization, and methods to reduce energy and maintenance costs through improvements in system design, control, and operation.
- Standardized assessment processes, including prescreening systems, gathering and analyzing data, applying ISO/ASME 14414‑aligned practices, and developing documented recommendations and reports.
Advanced modules delve into complex concepts in analysis, design, optimization, and problem solving, preparing candidates for the Pump System Assessment Professional (PSAP) certification, which validates their ability to conduct high‑quality pump system assessments and implement optimization techniques in the field.
PSC 1 and PSC 2 are intentionally aligned with PSAP expectations so that foundational and intermediate skills map directly into assessment‑level responsibilities. PSC 1 establishes baseline competence in pump and system behavior, while PSC 2 adds the diagnostic, testing, and optimization skills that are exercised during structured pump system assessments.
This creates a clear, progressive pathway:
- PSC1: Build core knowledge of pumps, systems, curves, and basic calculations to support everyday operation and communication.
- PSC2: Apply that knowledge to analyze performance, troubleshoot issues, and identify optimization opportunities using more advanced tools and methods.
- PSAP: Demonstrate, through advanced training and certification, the ability to perform full pump system assessments that leverage PSC1/PSC2 content, life‑cycle cost analysis, and standardized assessment processes.
By integrating PSC1, PSC2, and PSAP in this way, the Hydraulic Institute supports a structured competency ladder that helps individuals grow from foundational understanding to recognized assessment professionals while giving employers a reliable framework to identify and develop pump system expertise.
For any additional information about course options, certification pathways, or how to align this training with your organization’s goals, please contact the Senior Manager of Training and Education, Matthew C. Derner